Roller assembly for flexible bags

ABSTRACT

A system for dispensing product includes a track support and a roller assembly slidably engaged with the track support. The system further includes a valve assembly attached to a base portion of the track support, wherein a flexible product filled bag is retainable between by the roller assembly and wherein the roller assembly translates down the track support to force the product toward the valve assembly.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application60/534,644 filed Jan. 7, 2004, and 60/545,122 filed Feb. 17, 2004. Theentirety of each application is hereby incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention generally relates to the art of dispensing product and,particularly, to a dispensing system with a roller assembly.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The ability to dispense a controlled quantity of a condiment, such asketchup, mustard, relish, mayonnaise, salad dressings, hot wings sauce,spaghetti sauce, tartar sauce or other sauces, in an efficient mannerhas been important in the food service industry for many years. This isespecially true for large volume food handling operations such as fastfood restaurants, where employees and customers desire the ability todispense condiments quickly and conveniently, and where even a marginalreduction in the waste of, or time required to dispense, condimentsleads to significant savings in cost.

Dispensing condiments from large, flexible plastic bags is advantageous.Condiments can be easily packaged in large plastic bags at a centralfacility and shipped to the point of sale. Bulk plastic containers canincorporate gas barriers that allow condiments to be packaged so thatthey can be stored at room temperature, which makes the packages moreconvenient to ship and store. Storing the condiments at room temperaturesaves time when it is desirable that the condiment be served at roomtemperature by eliminating the requirement that the condiment be allowedto warm from a refrigerated temperature before use.

Flexible plastic bags are a common form of packaging for food and thusare readily handled by employees without special training. Further,storing the condiments at room temperature reduces the expense ofrefrigeration. In addition, bags are often more cost effective, easierto dispose of, and occupy less storage space.

Historically, many products and condiments have been shipped and storedin tin cans, often #10 tin cans. While tin cans offer good shelf lifeperformance, tin cans contribute to waste of product that clings to theside of cans. Further, tin cans are heavy to ship, store, and are heavyand voluminous for disposal. Additionally, tin cans require can openersto open—retrieving the opener reduces operational speed, and the openermay be difficult to locate, further reducing efficiency. Opening tincans may also result in sharp edges that may tear garbage bags and posea laceration risk.

Other historical containers include gallon jugs and caulk cartridge typecans. However, gallon jugs contribute to waste in the same fashion astin cans, and share many of the negative attributes of tin cans. Caulkcartridge type cans leave less product in the canister, but requirepriming of each can and generate significant wasted product. Forexample, a 25-ounce cartridge delivering a one-ounce payload necessarilywastes 4% of the product due to priming.

Devices attempting to efficiently dispense condiments from bulk flexibleplastic bags exist, including devices that use rollers advanced bygravity, by gears or rack and pinion means to squeeze condiment out ofthe plastic bags, but these devices have several disadvantages. Devicesthat use gravity actuated rollers or gears are complicated tomanufacture and may involve manipulating the rollers in non-intuitiveways. Other devices that utilize more complex means for releasingcondiment from the bags require that the bags incorporate speciallydesigned fittings, including tubes and couplings, which increase thecost and complexity of the packaging and add to product waste duringcleanup. Yet other devices use motorized pumps that require electricityand possibly pressurized gases to operate, which adds to the cost andsize of the dispensers, increasing manufacturing costs and addingcomplexity during cleaning. Further, pumps may result in undesiredsplatter, which both wastes product, as well as work effort to clean thesplatter. If a pump in the front of the store splatters, customers maybecome unhappy. Motorized devices often require long tubes thatcontribute to waste of the condiment and complicate clean up.Furthermore, existing types of dispensers have a single outlet for thecondiment, which reduces efficiency at workstations where multipleoutlets can be accommodated. Additionally, tubes reduce the range ofmovement and freedom of motion of the applicator device. Additionally,devices using pressurized gas rely on the gas, and in event of gasmalfunction, or lack of gas supply, the device is non-functional.

Other devices utilize fitments that require significant expense, andcontribute to waste if the fitment is improperly fitted. For example, aplastic fitment is used to provide a valve to a flexible bag. For use,the fitment must be separately manufactured, and heat sealed to aflexible bag.

However, accurately fitting a flexible bag into any of these dispensershas been problematic. An appropriate fit of the bag within a dispensingdevice is important to ensure correct insertion, as well as minimizingwaste and potentially damaging the package during use. It is furtherdesirable to minimize the time required to insert the bag, whilesimultaneously increasing the accuracy of the insertion. It is alsodesirable to provide a bag that minimizes clean up and disposal costs.It is further desirable that the bag can be manufactured on a variety ofpackaging machines with the insertion of customized seal jaws to createspouts, locator pins and tear notches.

The present invention advances the art.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One embodiment of the invention provides a system for dispensing productincluding a track support and a roller assembly slidably engaged withthe track support. The system further includes a valve assembly attachedto a base portion of the track support, wherein a flexible productfilled bag is retainable between by the roller assembly and wherein theroller assembly translates down the track support to force the producttoward the valve assembly.

Another embodiment of the invention provides a method of dispensingproduct including securing a flexible product filled bag in a rollerassembly and translating a roller assembly relative to the productfilled bag. The method further includes forcing product within the bagtoward a valve assembly and dispensing product through the valveassembly.

Yet another aspect of the invention provides a roller assembly fordispensing product from a bag. The roller assembly includes a rollerframe, a first knurled roller rotatably attached to the frame, and asecond knurled roller attached to the frame, the second knurled rollerpositioned adjacent the first knurled roller to form a nip. In addition,the roller assembly includes an actuator operably attached to one of thefirst and second roller, wherein product from a bag positioned in thenip is dispensed as the first and second rollers rotate responsive torotation of the actuator.

Yet another aspect of the invention provides a roller assembly fordispensing product from a bag. The roller assembly includes a rollerframe, a first roller rotatably attached to the frame, and a secondroller rotatably attached to the frame, the second roller positionedadjacent the first roller to form a. The roller assembly furtherincludes an actuator operably attached to one of the first and secondroller, wherein rotation of the actuator directly rotates the rollersand simultaneously translates the rollers relative to a product filledbag positioned in the nip to dispense food product.

The foregoing and other features and advantages of the invention willbecome further apparent from the following detailed description of thepresently preferred embodiments, read in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings. The detailed description and drawings are merelyillustrative of the invention rather than limiting, the scope of theinvention being defined by the appended claims and equivalents thereof.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a back view of one embodiment of a system in accordance withone embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a bag in accordancewith one aspect of the invention;

FIG. 1B is a perspective view of one embodiment of a bag in accordancewith one aspect of the invention;

FIG. 2A is a front view of one embodiment of a system in accordance withone embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a dispenser inaccordance with the invention;

FIG. 3B is an exterior view of the bottom of one embodiment of adispenser in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 4 is a view of one aspect of a system in accordance with oneembodiment, of the invention;

FIG. 5 is a view of one embodiment of a system in accordance with oneembodiment of the invention; and

FIG. 6 is a view of one embodiment of a system in accordance with oneembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 7 is a bottom view of one embodiment of a system in accordance withone embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 8 is a view of one embodiment of a system in accordance with oneembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a system in accordancewith one aspect of the invention;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a system inaccordance with one aspect of the invention;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a system inaccordance with one aspect of the invention;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a system inaccordance with one aspect of the invention;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a system inaccordance with one aspect of the invention;

FIG. 14 illustrates a perspective exploded view of one embodiment of adispenser in accordance with one aspect of the invention;

FIG. 15 illustrates a cross sectional exploded view of one embodiment ofa dual knife blade pump assembly in accordance with one aspect of theinvention;

FIGS. 16A and 16B illustrate perspective views of one embodiment ofremovable cap in accordance with one aspect of the invention;

FIG. 16C illustrates a top view of one embodiment of a dispenser supportin accordance with one aspect of the invention;

FIG. 16D illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a dispensersupport in accordance with one aspect of the invention

FIG. 16E illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a removablecap in accordance with one aspect of the invention;

FIG. 16F illustrates another embodiment of a pump assembly in accordancewith one aspect of the invention;

FIGS. 17 and 18 illustrate one embodiment of operation of a dispenserwith a dual knife blade pump assembly in accordance with one aspect ofthe invention; and

FIG. 19 illustrates one embodiment of a method for dispensingparticulate condiment in accordance with one aspect of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 illustrates a system 10 in accordance with one embodiment of theinvention. System 10 includes a frame 20, top clip 30, roller frame 40,and valve assembly 50. System 10 further includes housing 5 (see FIG. 6)and dispenser 310 (see FIGS. 3A and 3B). In one embodiment, flexible bag90 is retained and supported, at least in part, by top clip 30 and heldwithin roller assembly 40.

Housing 5 is operable to support frame 20. In one embodiment, housing 5is a freestanding unit, configurable to rest upon, for example, atabletop. In another embodiment, housing 5 is configured as awall-mounted unit. In one embodiment, frame 20 includes a male adaptorconfigured to mate with a female adaptor in housing 5 for a slidingengagement between frame 20 and housing 5. In one embodiment, frame 20includes a female adaptor configured to mate with a male adaptor inhousing 5 for a sliding engagement between frame 20 and housing 5.Embodiments with a female adaptor on the frame 20 may have a groove,such as groove 101 depicted in FIGS. 6 and 7, in either the top of theframe (such as, for example, top clip 30), the bottom of the frame (suchas, for example, valve assembly 50), or both. Housing 5 may comprise anyappropriate material. In food applications, stainless steel or foodgrade plastics may offer advantages, while in other applications,another material, such as, for example, plastic, food grade plastics, orPVC plastic may offer superior performance. In another embodiment,housing 5 includes a support ledge for supporting a handheld dispensersuch that the contents of a bag may be dispensed into the interior ofthe handheld dispenser. In one embodiment, the handheld dispenser is asillustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3B.

Frame 20 comprises two sides 21 connecting top clip 30 and valveassembly 50. Frame 20 further includes slide support 26. In oneembodiment, sides 21 are disposed substantially at opposite ends of topclip 30 and valve assembly 50, forming an approximately quadrilateralconfiguration. In one embodiment, sides 21 include grips configured toconform to human fingers to provide easy handling. In one embodiment,sides 21 are smooth and non-scalloped. In one embodiment, track support26 connects top clip 30 and valve assembly 50 at approximately amidpoint of a length L of top clip 30 and valve assembly 50. Frame 20 issized so that a flexible bag carried within the frame extendssubstantially from the top clip 30 to the valve assembly 50, with thetop clip 30 supporting the bag and valve assembly 50 controlling thedispensing of product contained by the bag.

Slide support 26 includes a base portion 27 and top portion 28. Baseportion 27 is attached to the valve assembly 50. Top portion 28 isaffixed to top clip 30. Track support 26 is configured, in an example,so that roller frame 40 is slidably engaged and translates axially alongtrack support 26 via a bearing surface of the roller frame 40. In oneembodiment, roller frame 40 translates freely along track support 26. Inanother embodiment, the interface between roller frame 40 and tracksupport 26 comprises any variety of bearing configurations including africtional grip, low friction interface, teeth, or ratchets. Tracksupport 26 with base portion 27 and top portion 28 is illustrated inFIG. 1 engaged with roller frame 40. In one embodiment, track support 26is configured for snap in and out attachment with top clip 30 and valveassembly 50.

Top clip 30 includes front 24 hingedly attached to back 25. In a closedconfiguration, front 24 and back 25 are positioned parallel andpositioned adjacent each other. In an open configuration, front 24 andback 25 are non-parallel. In one embodiment, front 24 is secured to back25 with a latch assembly 23. In one embodiment, latch assembly 23 isintegral with the front 24 and back 25. In another embodiment, latchassembly 23 includes a spring 22 operable to bias front 24 and back 25into an open configuration. In one embodiment, back 25 is configured tobe fixed relative to frame 10, while front 24 is configured to open andclose relative to back 25.

Roller frame 40 includes a first roller arm 41 and a second roller arm42. While in a closed configuration, first roller arm 41 and secondroller arm 42 are positioned parallel and adjacent each other. In anopen configuration, first roller arm and second roller arm 42 arenon-parallel. First roller arm 41 and second roller arm 42 are hingedlyattached at one end of each. In one embodiment, first and second rollerarms are hingedly attached at the same end as front 24 and back 25.First roller arm 41 and second roller arm 42, in one embodiment, aremaintained in a closed configuration with a latch assembly 39 (FIG. 2A).In one embodiment, the latch assembly includes a spring operable to biasthe first and second roller arms into an open configuration. In oneembodiment first roller arm 41 and second roller arm 42 are rotatablyattached to the frame 40. In another embodiment, first roller arm 41 isrotatably attached to frame 40 and second roller arm 42 is attached toframe 40.

First roller arm 41 includes a roller 43 axially disposed with firstroller arm 41 and rotatably affixed to the first roller arm. Secondroller arm 42 includes a roller 44 axially disposed with second rollerarm 42 and rotatably affixed to the second roller arm 42. Each roller43, 44 is rotatably attached to roller frame 40. Roller frame 40 isconfigured to translate along track support 26, and includes a bearingsurface in second roller arm 42. In one embodiment, second roller arm 42is omitted, and roller 44 remains rotatably attached to roller frame 40.In embodiments including a second roller arm 42, second roller arm 42provides additional strength or support for roller 44. In embodimentswithout second roller arm 42, roller 44 is configured to be sufficientlystrong as to obviate a need for second roller arm, and configured forlatching attachment to roller frame 40.

When in a closed configuration, first and second arms 41, 42 areconfigured to retain a flexible bag containing product. When in a closedconfiguration, roller arms 43, 44 form a nip 45. As first and secondrollers 43, 44 rotate, product from a bag positioned in the nip isdispensed through a spout in the bag and through valve assembly 50.

Roller 43 is operably attached to an actuator 46. Rotation of theactuator 46 directly rotates roller 43, roller 44 rotates in response torotation of roller 43, and simultaneously translates the rollers 43, 44relative to a product filled bag positioned in the nip to dispense foodproduct. In one embodiment, actuator 46 is a knob. In anotherembodiment, actuator 46 is a lever. In one embodiment, actuator 46 ismanually actuated, while in another embodiment, actuator 46 is actuatedwith mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, or magnetic assistance. In oneembodiment, actuation of actuator 46 results in vertical translation ofthe roller frame along track support 26. In one embodiment, actuator 46comprises a portion of an actuator assembly 49. In one embodiment,actuator assembly 49 includes a spring biasing the actuator 46 to aclosed configuration.

In one embodiment, at least one of the rollers 43, 44 comprises aknurled region 47. FIG. 2A depicts knurled region 47. In one embodiment,the knurled region 47 extends along substantially all of a length of theroller. In another embodiment, at least one of the rollers 43, 44includes a relief region 48 that is not knurled. FIG. 2A best depictsrelief region 48. In one embodiment, a relief region 48 includes acovering, such as, for example, an elastomeric or rubber sleeve toincrease friction between the relief region 48 and a complementaryregion on the other roller. In other embodiments, the interface betweenrelief region 48 and knurled region 47 reduces adverse effects on thematerial of a bag, such as bag 90, in the event that the materialbunches up in the interface. In other embodiments, the covering isconfigured for a smooth, relatively high friction surface to interfacewith the other roller. In embodiments where the relief region 48 is asleeve, the sleeve may be adhesively applied to the roller. As usedherein, a “knurl” is a protrusion that is regularly spaced but does notextend axially along a substantial portion of the roller withoutinterruption. The word “knurl” further comprises a series of smallridges or grooves on the surface or edge of a metal object to aid ingripping, so long as the ridges or grooves do not extend axially along asubstantial portion of the roller without interruption. In oneembodiment, the knurl is a protrusion in a pyramid configuration, withthe peak of the pyramid extending perpendicularly from the axis of theroller. In one embodiment, both rollers 43, 44 are knurled in at least aknurled region 47. In one embodiment, the knurled region 47 comprises amiddle region of the roller 43, 44, and the relief region 48 is formedadjacent at least one end region of the roller 43, 44. In otherembodiments, at least a portion of knurled region 47 is adjacent atleast one end portion of the roller 43, 44. For example, knurled region47 may be immediately adjacent an end of roller 43, with a relief region48 adjacent knurled region 47 and a second knurled region adjacentrelief region 48. In other embodiments, a knurl as used herein includes,straight knurls, round knurls, splines or gear attachments. In anotherembodiment, each roller is covered by an elastomeric covering.

In one embodiment, first roller 43 includes a knurled region 47 betweentwo relief regions 48 located at opposite ends of first roller 43, whilesecond roller 44 comprises a knurled region 47 but does not include arelief region. In one embodiment, each relief region 48 comprises nomore than approximately 20% of the length L of the roller 43.

In one embodiment, actuator 46 is substantially coaxial with at leastone of the roller arms 43, 44.

Valve assembly 50 includes a front 51 and a back 52. When in a closedconfiguration, front 51 and back 52 are substantially parallel andadjacent each other. In another embodiment, front 51 and back 52 arehingedly attached at one side of each. In one embodiment, front 51 andback 52 are hingedly attached at the same end as front 24 and back 25.Front 51 and back 52, in one embodiment, are maintained in a closedconfiguration with a latch assembly 59. In one embodiment, the latchassembly includes a spring operable to bias the front 51 and back 52into an open configuration. The latch assembly may be constructed eitherintegrally with the front 51 and back 52, or the latch assembly may beaffixed to the valve assembly 50 with any known means of attachment,including clips, hook and loop fasteners, snaps, screws, rivets,zippers, or the like.

In one embodiment, valve assembly 50 further includes a heating element(not shown) extending parallel with at least one of front 51 or back 52.In one embodiment, the heating element is configured to heat to 130degrees Fahrenheit to heat the contents of bag 90. Other heating orcooling configurations are within the scope of this disclosure.

Front 51 and back 52, in one embodiment, further include at least onebag alignment indicator 57. In one embodiment, bag alignment indicator57 comprises a pin affixed with one of front 51 and 52 configured tomatch a pin receiving hole integral with the other of front 51 and 52.The pin may be integral with one of front 51 and back 52. Bag alignmentindicator 57 may be configured to mate with bag alignment indicators ofa flexible bag, discussed below. In another embodiment, bag alignmentindicators include flat pins with or without barbs or hooks. In oneembodiment, bag alignment indicator 57 works in concert with at leastone tang to guide placement of the bag.

In one embodiment, track support 26 connects valve assembly 50 androller frame 40 at approximately a midpoint of a length L of valveassembly 50. In one embodiment, track support 26 connects valve assembly50 and roller frame 40 at approximately a midpoint of a length L ofroller frame 40.

In one embodiment, back 52 includes a groove 101 configured to mate witha housing rail 645 (see FIG. 6) to provide additional support to system10 and provide a sliding connection between back 52 and housing 5. Inone embodiment, groove 101 is configured to slidingly engage withhousing rail 645 (see, FIGS. 6, 7). In one embodiment, groove 101includes a taper at the front or back of the groove to enhancealignment.

Valve assembly 50 further includes at least one spout receiving portion55 (see FIG. 2). Spout receiving portion 55 is configured to receive aspout 93 of a flexible bag 90 containing product. Each spout receivingportion 55 is configured with complementary cut-out areas 56 on each offront 51 and back 52, as well as a valve 53 contained within the cut-outareas 56. Valve 53 is operably attached to an actuator 58 (see FIG. 7).In one embodiment, actuator 58 comprises a lever that is hingedlyattached to the valve 53.

In yet another embodiment, valve 53 is actuated by the actuator 46 thatactuates the rollers 43, 44. In such an embodiment, each valve 53 isconnected with a link to the actuator 46, such that actuation ofactuator 46 simultaneously actuates the rollers 43, 44 and valves 53.Actuation of actuator 46 drives a catch axial to the rollers, actuatinga driving rod configured to be driven by the catch. In one embodiment,the driving rod is polygonal. Actuating the driving rod causes the rodto rotate about an axis that is non-parallel to the rollers. In oneembodiment, the axis of the rod is substantially perpendicular to theaxis of the rollers. Rotation of the driving rod causes translation of avalve catch in valve assembly 50. The valve catch is configured to bedriven by the driving rod. In one embodiment, the valve catch includes atoggle. In another embodiment, the valve catch includes a rotatablelever configured to apply force to the valve. Translation of the valvecatch opens and closes the valves 53. In one embodiment, the valve catchis configured such that valve 53 is locked in a closed configuration,while even a slight rotation of the driving rod causes the valve catchto disengage from its locked position, and valve 53 will open. Oneembodiment of such a valve catch is as illustrated in FIG. 4, as valvecatch 445. In another such embodiment, valve 53 is biased to a closedposition with a spring biasing the actuator 46. Thus, in certainembodiments, actuator 58 may be the identical structure as actuator 46.Actuation of actuator 46 includes a variety of methods known in the art,such as rotation of a knob-type actuator by any appropriate degree ofrotation, for example, 90 degrees, 45 degrees or 30 degrees.

The elements of an embodiment wherein actuator 46 actuates the valve 53are shown in exploded view in FIG. 4. At 400, the actuator system 410are illustrated as including knob 420, spring 415, receiver 423, drivingelement 425, driving disc 427, rod 430, valve element 435, actuatorcatch 440, and valve catch 445. Spring 415 biases the position of knob420 relative to receiver 423. Receiver 423 mates with flights formedusing conventional techniques into the outer surface of driving element425 to rotate the rollers 42, 43 using driving disc 427 mated with therollers, as described above. Rotation of knob 420 simultaneously resultsin the axial translation of actuator catch 440 by pressure applied tosurface 441 at one side of leg 442. Leg 442 and actuator catch 440rotate relative to each other about hinge 444. Actuator catch 440includes a reception hole configured such that rod 430 snugly fitswithin reception hole 443. In one embodiment, rod 430 and reception holecomprise a hexagonal cross-section, although other polygonal shapes maybe used. In one embodiment, rod 430 and the reception hole comprise arectangular shape. Reception hole 443 is hingedly attached with hinge444 to the remaining portion of actuator catch 440 such that axialtranslation of actuator catch 440 results in rotation of reception hole443 and thus rotation of rod 430. Rotation of rod 430 results in axialtranslation of valve element 435 using similar principles—rotation ofrod 430 causes translation of valve element 435. Reception hole 446mates with hinge 444. Valve catch 445 also functions as an actuatorcatch.

Various embodiments of the invention include use of two knobs 420—one oneach side of the roller assembly. In embodiments using a single knob420, valve catch 440 is an unnecessary element of the structure.

Valve 53 is configured to match the profile of a flexible bag. In oneembodiment, valve 53 is configured to provide product from the contentsof the flexible bag. In one embodiment, a flexible bag includes a spoutreceiving portion configured to match valve 53. In one embodiment, valveassembly 50 is configured such that at least a portion of a lower sealedregion of a bag extends through the valve 53 such that the productdispensed by the bag does not contact the valve 53 during dispensing.

FIG. 7 is an underside view of valve assembly 50.

Referring now to FIGS. 1A and 1B, system 10 further includes a flexiblebag 90 containing product to be dispensed. Bag 90 includes a productcontainment portion 92 and at least one spout receiving portion 93 incommunication with the product containment portion. Product containmentportion 92 is an interior region of the bag 90 defined by a top sealedsupport portion 94, and at least two sealed sidewall portions 91.Product containment portion is further defined by a lower sealed region95 adjacent a bottom end 99 of the containment portion 92. In oneembodiment, the lower sealed region 95 includes at least one bagalignment indicator 97, wherein the bag alignment indicator 97 allowsalignment of the spout receiving portion 93 with a valve (e.g. valve 53)to position the spout receiving portion to receive a dispenser spout. Inone embodiment, the bag alignment indicator comprises a hole configuredto mate with a bag alignment pin in valve assembly 50. In oneembodiment, bag 90 includes a single spout receiving portion 93, whilein another embodiment bag 90 includes two spout receiving portions 93.In one embodiment, bag 90 is implemented as shown in U.S. Design patentapplication 29/203,851, filed Apr. 16, 2004. In another embodiment, bag90 comprises a tube sealed at its ends. In another embodiment, bag 90 isa bag sealed at only a single side.

In order to dispense the product contained within bag 90, a tear strip96 is included. Tear strip 96 may be configured to be easily torn byhand, or may be configured to require a sharp implement to cut along thestrip. In embodiments configured to be torn by hand, tear strip 96 maybe perforated, or may comprise an area where lower sealed region 95 hasreduced thickness relative to the remaining portions of lower sealedregion 95. Tear strip 96, in one embodiment, is located so that the atleast one bag alignment indicator 97 is disposed between the tear strip96 and the product containment portion 92. In one embodiment, tear strip96 includes an area without perforations, such as an area created byseal jaws with a dulled portion.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1A, bag 90 includes two spoutreceiving portions 93 configured to match two valves 53. In oneembodiment, lower sealed region 95 comprises a triangular shape betweenthe two spout receiving portions, such that any product contained inproduct containment portion 92 will be biased to flow to one of the twospout receiving portions.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1B, bag 90 includes a single spoutreceiving portion 93 disposed near an edge of lower sealed region 95. Insuch an embodiment, lower sealed region 95 is configured with a slope 89such that any product contained in product containment portion 92 isbiased to flow to the spout receiving portion. In one embodiment, theslope is an angle between approximately 1 degree and approximately 5degrees.

Spout receiving portion 93 is configured to dispense the productcontained within product containment portion. In one embodiment, spoutreceiving portion 93 is configured to mate with a spout 505 (see FIG. 5)to receive the product and convey the product to a desired location. Inone embodiment, the spout includes an angle to dispense the product to alocation other than directly below the spout receiving portion. In oneembodiment, the spout is configured in an approximate “s” shape. In oneembodiment, the spout is carried within a hinged housing 510 external tothe system 10. In an embodiment, the hinged housing 510 comprises ahinged attachment configured to attach to valve assembly 50. In anotherembodiment the spout is configured to dispense the product exterior to ahousing carrying system 10.

Top sealed support portion 94 is configured to provide a region forsupport. In one embodiment, top sealed support portion 94 is configuredto be supported by top 22. In another embodiment, roller frame 40provides sufficient support when in a closed configuration. In oneembodiment, top sealed support portion 94 is at an end of the foodproduct containment portion opposite the lower sealed region 95.

In one embodiment, bag 90 is constructed of a flexible plastic capableof preserving the condiment at room temperature. In another example, bag90 is a barrier bag. At least one of edges of the bag 94, 95, 91 areheat-sealed, and one or more openings spout receiving portions 93 aremolded into the lower sealed region. In one embodiment, bag 90 comprisesa flexible food grade plastic. In one embodiment, the bag comprises abi-axially oriented nylon material laminated to an ethyl-vinyl-alcohol(EVOH) polyethylene or metallocene sealant. In another embodiment, thebag comprises a uni-axially oriented nylon or polypropylene laminated toan EVOH and then laminated to a linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE)or metallocene sealant. Alternatively, the uni-axially orientedpolypropylene or nylon can be laminated to a 5 to 7 layer EVOH—LLDPEsealant. In another embodiment, bag 90 comprises PVC, polystyrene, orhigh-impact styrene. Other embodiments include the use of linear lowdensity blends as well as low density EVA blends. In one embodiment, thebag includes a material selected to tear uniformly along a desired tearstrip without tearing up or down away from the desired tear strip.

In another embodiment, bag 90 is composed of a laminated material thatprovides uniform and consistent tearing properties at least in theregion adjacent to and including the at least one spout receivingportion 93. One exemplary embodiment of bag 90 having uniform andconsistent tearing properties is composed of a three-ply laminated film.A first layer of the three-ply film is composed of 100 gauge (1 ml)uniaxially oriented polypropylene. The first layer is laminated to asecond layer composed of 50 gauge (0.5 ml) biaxially orientedethyl-vinyl-alcohol (EVOH). The second layer is laminated to 250 gauge(2.5 ml) linear low-density polyethylene. In one embodiment, bag 90includes a barrier, while in other embodiments, bag 90 does not includea barrier.

In another embodiment, tear strip 96 is configured to include at leastone locating hole to further guide tearing of the bag.

Another exemplary embodiment of bag 90 having the uniform and consistenttearing properties is composed of a two-ply laminated film. A firstlayer of the two-ply film is composed of 100 gauge (1 ml) uniaxiallyoriented polypropylene. The first layer is laminated to a second layercomposed of 300 gauge (3.0 ml) EVOh/polyethylene.

In an exemplary embodiment, the system as described herein may be usedto dispense condiments both in the “front of the store” and in the “backof store” using identical bags 90. Operation of the system entailsproviding a system 10 and a bag 90 containing product to be dispensedthrough the system 10. Roller assembly 40 is operated to configureroller assembly 40 into an open configuration. An upper portion of bag90 is inserted between rollers 43, 44 such that the majority of productis located between the rollers 43, 44 and the lower sealed region 95.Roller assembly 40 is then operated to configure roller assembly to aclosed and locked configuration. Roller assembly 40 is placed adjacenttop clip 30, and if sufficient material of bag 90 is available forinsertion into top clip 30, top clip 30 is operated to assume an openconfiguration, at least a portion of the sufficient material is placedbetween the arms of top clip 30 and top clip 30 is then operated toassume a closed configuration. Valve assembly 50 is operated to assumean open position and the lower sealed region 95 is placed between front51 and back 52, such that at least one spout receiving portion mateswith at least one valve 53, and the valve 53 is located between any tearstrip 96 and the spout receiving portion. In embodiments with bagalignment indicators, the bag alignment indicators 59, 97 are alsoaligned. Valve assembly 50 is then operated to assume a closed, andlocked, configuration. An operator may choose to ensure that valve 53 isin a closed configuration such that the product containment portion 92is insulated from the tear strip 96. Tear strip 96 is then torn, or alower sealed portion is cut such that if valve 53 assumes an openconfiguration, product disposed in product containment portion 92 may bedispensed from the bag into the environment. In one embodiment, productis dispensed into a container, such as, for example, the containerdescribed in FIGS. 3A and 3B. In another embodiment, product isdispensed directly onto an area below valve 53.

In another embodiment, bag 90 is loaded into assembly 10 by firstopening the top clip and bottom, valve assembly. The rollers remainclosed and in a substantially parallel configuration. The bag ispositioned over the tangs and bag locators, and the valve assembly isclosed over the bag. The top portion of the bag is fed through therollers until a nip is formed. Once the nip is formed, a sufficientportion of the bag is available to clip into top clip. Having fullysupported the bag, the bottom of the bag is torn or cut off to enabledispensing of product from the bag into a dispenser.

FIG. 3A illustrates a dispenser 310 comprising a reservoir 311 thatcontains the condiment, a pump 312 that releases the condiment incontrolled quantities, and a handle 313 with a trigger 333 that actuatesthe pump in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. Pump 312may also be referred to as a positive displacement pump.

The reservoir 311 has an open top 320, sides 321, and a bottom 322. Inone embodiment, the reservoir 311 is generally cylindrical, and the top320 has a larger diameter than the bottom 322. In some embodiments, thetop 320 is sized to facilitate easy refilling of the reservoir 311. Inanother embodiment, the dispenser 310 is substantially frusto-conical.Optionally, a cover (not shown) can be placed over the top 320 to reducethe likelihood of foreign matter falling into the reservoir 311.Additionally, a cover may reduce dehydration of the contents of thereservoir.

FIG. 3B illustrates the bottom 322 of one embodiment of a reservoir 311comprising 5 holes 323. In other embodiments, the bottom 322 contains aplurality of holes 323. Holes 323 permit the condiment to exit thereservoir 311. The bottom 322 is sized and the holes 323 are spaced sothat the dispenser releases the condiment onto a food product in apredetermined pattern, also called a diffusion pattern. Holes 323 may bearranged in any number of predetermined diffusion patterns. In oneexample, holes 323 are arranged at the vertices of a pentagon. Inanother example, holes 323 are arranged at the vertices of a square withan additional hole 323 at the center of the square.

The reservoir 311 is made, in one embodiment, of a single piece of aplastic that does not react with food products, is durable, and is easyto clean. In another embodiment, the reservoir 311 is constructed from aplurality of pieces that may be molded together or formed using anyappropriate fabrication technique. In another embodiment, reservoir 311comprises a high density polyethelene (HDPE) or other food grade plasticthat is resistant to the contents of the reservoir. The embodiment shownin FIG. 3B incorporates a plurality of horizontal lines 324 on the wallsof the reservoir 311 that indicate suggested minimum and maximum levelsfor the condiment in the reservoir. The horizontal lines 324 are molded,in one embodiment, into the walls 321 of the reservoir 311. In anotherembodiment, additional horizontal lines 324 are included to indicateother suggested fill levels, such as a level to fill at times duringwhich the condiment likely will not be frequently used, such as, forexample, late at night or during off-hours.

In one embodiment, handle 313 actuates pump 312. Actuation of pump 312controls the flow of condiment from the reservoir 311. The handle 313includes a fixed component 331 and a movable trigger 332, as shown inFIG. 3A. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3A, the fixed component 331 ismolded as an integral part of the reservoir 311. In another embodiment,fixed component 331 is hollow with an open bottom. Fixed component 331and trigger 332 are configured so that trigger 332 actuates pump 312 andmates and is accepted into a hollow portion of the fixed component 331.In one embodiment, the fixed component 331 extends from the reservoir311 at an angle that allows the dispenser to be disposed above a targetwith bottom 322 of the dispenser level with the food product. Thus,fixed component 331, in an embodiment, extends from reservoir 311 at anangle between 0 and 90 degrees. In such an embodiment, the operator'shand may attain an ergonomically neutral position.

The trigger 332 is functionally connected to the pump 312, and it islocated on the handle 313. In one embodiment, an operator can hold thedispenser 310 and actuate the pump 312 with one hand. Severalalternative structures exist that would perform the function of thetrigger 332, but the trigger 332 shown in the drawings includes a lowerarm 333, an axle 334, and an upper arm 336. The lower arm 333 extendsbelow the fixed component 331 of the trigger 332 and between the fixedcomponent 331 and the reservoir 311, where an operator can apply forceto the lower arm 333 and actuate the trigger 332. Axle 334 operably androtatably connects trigger 332 with fixed component 331. In oneembodiment, axle 334 is substantially cylindrical and rotates withinbearing pockets formed in the fixed component 331 of the handle 313. Inone embodiment, the bearing pockets are substantially the same diameteras axle 334. In one embodiment, the bearing pockets are slotted to allowfor removal of the arm. Upper arm 336 extends from axle 334 to thetopmost element of the pump 312. When force is applied to lower arm 333of trigger 332, trigger 332 rotates about the axle 334, moving upper arm336 downward, and actuating pump 312. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 3A, trigger 332 comprises finger grips configured to match thecontours of a human hand. In other embodiments, trigger 332 is smooth.

In one embodiment, trigger 332 is configured so that the pressureapplied to trigger 332 determines which of at least two volumes ofproduct is released. For example, a two position trigger may dispense 5grams of product if 5 foot pounds of pressure is applied to the trigger,and dispense 9 grams of product if more than 6 foot pounds of pressureis applied. The configuration actuates the pump to dispense a defaultvolume of product, i.e. 5 grams in the above example, or a larger volumeif desired. Such a configuration may be desirable, for instance, if twosimilar products are to receive the product. For example, a restaurantmay serve two similar hamburgers—a hamburger featuring a quarter poundof hamburger and a hamburger featuring a half pound of hamburger. Inthis example, the quarter pound hamburger may receive a smaller volumeof ketchup than the half pound hamburger, and this may be selected bythe amount of force applied to the trigger. In one embodiment, theconfiguration of trigger 332 comprises a spring loaded stop block, suchas female block assembly 391.

In one embodiment, fixed element 331 includes a female block assembly391 configured to communicate with a male block assembly 390 of trigger332. Male block assembly 390 mates with female block assembly 91 to stoptrigger 332 in an actuated position.

Pump 312 comprises an upper column, a lower column, a piston 342 and acylinder 343. As shown in FIG. 3A, upper arm 336 includes a cavity thatreceives the upper end of the upper column 340. The upper column 340extends from the cavity 337 in the upper arm 336 to the lower column.The bottom of the upper column 340 is closed, and rests atop the lowercolumn.

A vertical wall extends around the circumference of the bottom. Opening345 is sized to accept bottom 347 and vertical wall 344, and isconfigured so that the edge of the vertical wall 344 connects with theedge of the piston 342. In operation, the vertical wall 344 forms aninterface with the opening 345 of the piston 342 when trigger 332 issqueezed. Wall 344 severs or compresses any particulate matter thatwould interfere with an interface between upper column 340 and thepiston 342. In one embodiment, vertical wall 344 is thinner than thereservoir 311.

Piston 342 rests in the upper chamber 348 of the pump cylinder 343, asshown in FIG. 3A. Piston 342 includes a central hole 349 through whichthe lower column 341 extends. Reservoir 311 and upper chamber 348communicate through a plurality of piston holes 346. The piston holes346 have walls that are chamfered so as to remove sharp edges at the topand bottom surfaces of the piston 342.

Pump cylinder 343 rests at the bottom of the reservoir 311. In oneembodiment, pump cylinder 343 is sized to form an interface between theexterior of the cylinder 343 and the bottom of the reservoir 311. In oneembodiment, the interface created between the exterior of cylinder 343and the bottom of reservoir 311 prevents the condiment from leakingaround the cylinder. In addition to the upper chamber 348, describedabove, pump cylinder 343 includes a lower chamber 350 and a partition351 that separates the upper chamber from the lower chamber. Like thepiston 342, the partition 351 has a central hole 352 through which thelower column 341 extends and a plurality of holes 353. In oneembodiment, the holes 353 are chamfered to remove sharp edges at the topand bottom surfaces of the partition. A cylindrical vertical wall 354extends below the partition 351 and forms an interface with the bottomplate 355 of the lower column 341. In one embodiment, vertical wall 354is thinner than the walls of the reservoir 311. In operation, thevertical wall 353 severs or compresses any particulate matter in thecondiment, thereby improving the interface between the pump cylinder 343and the bottom plate 355 of the lower column 341.

As shown in FIG. 3A, the top of the lower column 341 is in contact withthe bottom of the upper column 340. The lower column 341 has a bottomplate 355 that fits into the thin vertical wall 354 of the pump cylinder343 to interface, as described above. Upper plate 356 of lower column341 is positioned below the piston 342. The upper plate 356 ispositioned so as to engage the piston 342 but not to obstruct the pistonholes 346. A spring (not shown) biases lower column 341 to form a sealbetween bottom plate 355 and pump cylinder 343. The spring furtherbiases lower column 341 so that the piston 342 is located near the topof the upper chamber 348 when the trigger 332 is not actuated.

The operation of the embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 3A is asfollows. When the trigger 332 is not depressed, the lower column 341 ispositioned so that the bottom plate 355 forms a seal with the verticalwalls 354 of the pump cylinder 343. The piston 342 is positioned at thetop of the upper chamber 348, and a gap exists between the piston andthe upper column 340. In this position, the condiment can flow from thereservoir 311 through the gap between the piston 342 and the uppercolumn 340 and through the piston holes 346 into the upper chamber 348of the pump cylinder 343. The seal between the bottom plate 355 and thevertical walls 354 of the pump cylinder 343 prevents the condiment fromflowing into the lower chamber 350 and exiting through the holes 323 inthe bottom 322 of the dispenser 310.

On actuation of trigger 332, the vertical wall 344 moves downward andengages with wall 345 of the piston 342, forming an interface thatprevents further condiment from flowing into the upper chamber 348. Theaction of the trigger 332 also moves the lower column 341 downward,which forms a gap between the bottom plate 355 and the pump cylinder 343due to pressure of the condiment, permitting condiment in the upperchamber 348 to flow through the holes 353 of the pump partition 351 andout the holes 323 in the bottom 322 of the dispenser. Further action ofthe trigger 332 depresses the piston 342, thereby forcing the condimentin the upper chamber 348 out of the dispenser.

When the trigger 332 is released, lower column 341 moves upward asbiased by the lower spring, restoring the interface between the bottomplate 355 and the vertical walls 354 of the pump cylinder 343. The upperplate 356 engages the piston 342 and moves piston 342 upward to itsoriginal position near the top of the upper chamber 348. The uppercolumn 340 is biased upward by the upper spring, restoring the gapbetween the piston wall 345 and the vertical wall 344. In this position,condiment flows into the upper chamber 348 but not the lower chamber350, and the dispenser 310 is ready to be used again.

A container in accordance with the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 3Aand 3B may be constructed of modular components that may be disassembledand reassembled.

FIG. 14 illustrates another embodiment of a dispenser in accordance withanother aspect of the invention. FIG. 14 illustrates a dispenser 1400including a dual knife blade pump assembly with a check valve.

Dispenser 1400 includes a trigger 1405 operably connected to rod 1410.In one embodiment, trigger 1405 is manufactured as a unitary piece,including protrusions configured to mate with holding gaps 1407manufactured into a receptacle 1408 of grip 1409. Grip 1409 furtherincludes stop block 1475. Stop block 1475 is configured to control thedistance that can be traveled between trigger 1405 and grip 1409. In oneembodiment, stop block 1475 is removable and configured to control theamount of product dispensable with dispenser 1400. For example, one stopblock is configured to allow trigger 1405 to displace a certain distanceto dispense 5 grams of product. In another example, a different stopblock is configured to allow trigger 1405 to displace a differentdistance to dispense 3 grams of product. In another example, stop block1475 is configured with a spring load to enable multiple levels ofproduct dispensing. For example, a spring loaded stop block isconfigured so that displacing trigger 1405 until the handle meets theresistance from the spring dispenses 5 grams of product, whilecontinuing the displacement and overcoming the spring resistance resultsin dispensing 7 grams of product. In other embodiments, stop block 1475is configured to mount to trigger 1405.

Trigger 1405 is configured to slide through receptacle 1408, such thatwhen properly assembled trigger 1405 is disposed between handle portion1409 and the body of container 1420. This configuration is illustratedin FIG. 17 (trigger 1405 in a non-deployed position) and 18 (trigger1405 in a deployed position). Operation of trigger 1405 moves handlecloser or farther away from a lower surface 1498. In other words, if ahuman holds dispenser 1400 in their right hand, in a ‘hand-shaking’fashion, the user's fingers surround trigger 1405 while a palm of thehand surrounds grip 1409. Application of pressure by the user's fingersmoves the trigger 1405 about axis 1493 and closer to handle portion 1409in “gripping” fashion. In one embodiment, trigger 1405 includes fingerguard 1404 configured to facilitate handling dispenser 1400. In anotherembodiment, trigger 1405 includes rest position blocks 1401 configuredto limit trigger upstroke.

Dispenser 1400 includes a container 1420. Container 1420 includes acontainment portion 1421 configured to hold product within dispenser1400. Container 1420 further includes grip 1409, and at least one wing1423. In one embodiment, wing 1423 is configured as a protrusionextending outward from an outer wall of the containment portion 1421 andsubstantially perpendicular to an axis extending through a centerline1426 of the product area. In one embodiment, the at least one wing 1423is shaped to mate with a wing receptacle of a dispenser support (FIG.16D). In one embodiment, wing 1423 comprises a vertical ridge. In oneembodiment, wing 1423 is any structure configured to guide placement ofthe dispenser. In one embodiment, at least one wing 1423 is manufacturedintegrally with container 1420. In one embodiment, wing 1423 isconfigured to prevent ‘painting’ or spreading of the contents of adispenser upon a roller assembly or a housing supporting the rollerassembly. In one embodiment, a wing 1423 reduces mess involved inoperation of the dispenser, facilitating clean up. In anotherembodiment, container 1420 includes visual indicators 1422 for at leasttwo fill levels. For example, container 1420 includes a visual indicatorfor a minimum fill level, a maximum fill level and a “night” fill level.Container 1420 further includes dual knife blade pump assembly 1440,described in further detail in FIG. 15 below.

Trigger 1405 is configured to rotate about an axis 1493 between theprotrusions when fitted into the gaps 1408. Thus, in operation, trigger1405 rotates about axis 1493 to bring trigger 1405 closer or fartherfrom grip 1409. Trigger 1405 is, in one embodiment, configured toactuate the dual knife blade pump assembly.

Dispenser 1400 further includes a removable cap 1430. In one embodiment,removable cap is configured to be screwed on to a cap portion 1431 ofcontainer 1420. Cap 1430 includes a top surface 1432 and bottom surface1433. Top surface 1432 is configured to be in contact with product priorto dispensing the product, while bottom surface 1433 is opposite topsurface 1432. Cap 1430 includes at least one hole 1437 (FIGS. 16A, 16B)extending through the cap 1430 and extending from top surface 1432through to bottom surface 1433 and configured to dispense the productcontained in container 1420. The holes are configured to create adiffusion pattern, and each hole has a diameter configured to affect thediffusion pattern of the product and may also be configured to dispenseparticulates contained in the product. For example, a cap 1430configured to dispense Thousand Island dressing must have holes with adiameter sufficient to dispense the particulates contained in ThousandIsland dressing. In another embodiment, cap 1430 includes single filersdisposed on top surface 1432 to direct product flow through the holesand to direct any particulates to line up single file for dispensingthrough the holes. See, FIG. 16E, below. In one embodiment, the singlefilers are manufactured into top surface 1432. In another embodiment,top surface 1432 is chamfered to improve product flow. In anotherembodiment, dispenser 1400 is one element of a system to dispenseproduct, the system further including a plurality of matched removablecaps. In embodiments featuring a plurality of matched removable caps,the caps may also be matched with stop blocks to control the amount ofproduct dispensed.

FIG. 16A illustrates one embodiment of a cap 1430 in accordance with oneembodiment of the invention. As illustrated in FIG. 16A, cap 1430features 5 holes 1437. FIG. 16B illustrates one embodiment of a cap 1430in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. As illustrated inFIG. 16B, cap 1430 features 3 holes 1437. FIG. 16E illustrates anotherembodiment of a cap 1430 in accordance with another aspect of theinvention. FIG. 16E shows top surface 1432 of cap 1430, including 3holes 1437 and single filers 1499. In one embodiment, single filers 1499comprise a groove chamfered into top surface 1432 to guide movement ofparticulate matter through holes 1437. Single filers 1499 comprise agroove with increasing depth, i.e., a deeper cut through cap 1430,approaching holes 1437. FIG. 16E additionally illustrates screw threads1998 cut or formed into cap 1430 for attachment to container 1420,although any other appropriate means may be used for attachment,including snap fitting, hinge or bayonet style attachments.

FIG. 16C illustrates a top view of a dispenser support 1686 inaccordance with one aspect of the invention. Dispenser support 1686includes wing receptacle 1667 formed within the dispenser support. Wingreceptacle 1667 is configured to engage with a wing portion 1423 ofdispenser 1400. FIG. 16D illustrates a perspective view of dispensersupport 1686 in accordance with one aspect of the invention. FIG. 16Dfurther shows wing receptacles 1667 formed in dispenser support 1686.Wing receptacles 1667 include wing engagement portion 1668 formed withinthe dispenser support 1686. As shown in FIGS. 16C and 16D, dispensersupport 1686 is configured with two wing receptacles 1667. It isapparent that any number of wing receptacles 1667 may be formed in adispenser support 1686. In one embodiment, wing engagement portion 1668includes wing locator 1669 configured to indicate that a productcontainment portion, i.e. product containment portion 1421, is in itsdesired position, and that dispenser 1400 is appropriately positioned.In one embodiment, dispenser support 1686 is configured to attach to ahousing, such as housing 5, below a dispenser, such as the rollerassembly previously discussed.

FIG. 15 illustrates one embodiment of a dual knife blade pump assembly1440 in accordance with one embodiment of the invention. Trigger 1405actuates the pump assembly, and in one embodiment, is implemented astrigger 1405 as described above with reference to FIG. 14.

Trigger 1405 operably connects to rod 1510. In one embodiment, trigger1405 attaches to rod 1510 with a snap, although other connection methodsare anticipated and included in this disclosure. Rod 1510 includes alower region 1513. Lower region 1513 includes first knife bladereceptacle 1520. First knife blade receptacle 1520 is configured to matewith first knife blade 1530. In one embodiment, first knife bladereceptacle 1520 is a chamfered surface formed in lower region 1513 andconfigured to closely meet with first knife blade 1530. First knifeblade 1530 and first knife blade receptacle 1520 forms an upper knifeblade assembly. Manufacturing tolerances for the upper knife bladeassembly should be tight, as engagement between first knife blade 1530and first knife blade receptacle 1520 is especially beneficial for theinvention. It should be noted that although metallic knife blades may beused to create a relatively sharp knife edge, metallic knife edges arenot necessary, and first knife blade 1530 and first knife bladereceptacle 1520 may be molded from plastics or other material as aunitary part.

Piston 1540 includes first knife blade 1530 and includes at least oneproduct opening to allow product to flow from around rod 1510 andthrough piston 1540 to cylinder 1550. In one embodiment, each productopening is chamfered to minimize the number of surfaces with a planeperpendicular to an axis 1501 running through a centerline of dual knifeblade pump assembly 1440. Piston 1540 slides along pin 1543. In oneembodiment, pin 1543 is made as unitary construction with rod 1510,while in other embodiments, pin 1543 is a separate piece configured foroperable attachment to rod 1510. Although pin 1543 is shown in FIGS. 14and 15 as disposed between rod 1510 and piston 1540, in one embodiment,pin 1543 is disposed between piston 1540 and spring 1545. Thisembodiment is illustrated in FIG. 16F.

It should be noted that first knife blade 1530 could be disposed uponrod 1510 and that first knife blade receptacle 1520 could be configuredon piston 1540, and that such a configuration is considered theequivalent.

First knife blade 1530 is disposed on an upper surface 1531 andconfigured to mate with first knife blade receptacle 1520. Piston 1540further includes a lower surface 1532 including an upper spring seat1537. As shown in FIG. 16F, upper spring seat 1537 is disposed on pin1543. Returning to FIG. 15, upper spring seat 1537 is configured to meetwith spring 1545 so as to provide a surface resistive to forces appliedby spring 1545. Forces may be applied to spring 1545 by upper springseat 1537 or by lower spring seat 1548.

Cylinder 1550 surrounds spring 1545 and is operably disposed withinproduct portion 1495 of FIG. 14. Cylinder 1550 is configured for slidingengagement within product portion 1495 such that cylinder 1550 may beeasily removed from product portion 1495, e.g. for cleaning. In oneembodiment, the inner diameter of product portion 1495 is substantiallythe same as the outer diameter of cylinder 1550 for a snug fit. Cylinder1550 includes an inner wall and an outer wall. The inner wall ofcylinder 1550 includes lower spring seat 1548. In one embodiment, lowerspring seat 1548 comprises a section of the inner wall with a smallerinner diameter creating a surface substantially perpendicular to axis1501 wide enough to support spring 1545. Cylinder 1550 further includesopenings 1555 configured to allow fluidic communication between an areasurrounding spring 1545 and valve 1560. In one embodiment, cylinderopenings 1555 are configured without surfaces perpendicular to axis1501. In one embodiment, each surface of cylinder 1550 is chamfered. Inanother embodiment, each cylinder openings 1555 includes single filerschamfered to channel any particulate matter through a cylinder openings1555. Cylinder 1550 further includes valve guide 1565 configured toguide displacement of valve 1570 along axis 1501. Cylinder 1550 furtherincludes second knife blade 1580 configured to mate with valve knifeblade receptacle 1590. In one embodiment, cylinder openings 1555comprise holes.

Valve 1570 displaces along axis 1501 to dispense product, guided byvalve guide 1565. Valve 1570 further includes second knife bladereceptacle 1590 and bottom spring seat 1595 configured to provide asurface for spring 1575. The combination of second knife blade 1580 andsecond knife blade receptacle 1590 forms a lower knife blade assembly.The upper knife blade assembly and lower knife blade assembly form adual knife blade assembly. Manufacturing tolerances for the lower knifeblade assembly should be reasonably tight, as engagement between secondknife blade 1580 and valve knife blade receptacle 1590 is especiallybeneficial for the invention. It should be noted that although metallicknife blades may be used to create a relatively sharp knife-edge,metallic knife-edges are not necessary, and second knife blade 1580 andsecond knife blade receptacle 1590 may be molded from plastics or othermaterial as a unitary part.

It should be noted that second knife blade 1580 could be disposed uponvalve 1570 and that second knife blade receptacle 1590 could beconfigured on cylinder 1550, and that such a configuration is consideredthe equivalent.

Operation of dispenser 1400 is described as follows, referencing FIGS.14, 15, 17 and 18. In operation, dispenser 1400 operates to dispensecontrolled amounts of a fluid, such as a condiment. For example,dispenser 1400 dispenses controlled amounts of tartar sauce, ketchup, orThousand Island dressing. The dual knife blade assembly of pump 1440 isespecially well suited for fluids containing particulates, i.e.,Thousand Island dressing, although the pump is equally suited for fluidsthat do not contain particulates, i.e., ketchup.

When dispenser 1400 has no product contained in cylinder 1550, the dualknife blade pump assembly must be primed for its first use. It should benoted that so long as the amount of product in containment portion 1421does not fall below a certain “minimum level,” no further priming isnecessary until dispenser 1400 is emptied of product again, such as forcleaning.

Priming the dual knife blade pump assembly comprises filling cylinder1550 with product. Prior to priming, trigger 1405 sits at rest in anon-deployed position. Actuation of trigger 1405 to operate dispenser1400 moves trigger 1405 closer to grip 1409. Movement of trigger 1405displaces rod 1510 axially along axis 1501. When rod 1510 is at itsuppermost position (trigger 1405 is in its non-deployed position),product in containment portion 1421 flows around lower region 1513 andthrough holes 1531, filling cylinder 1550 with product. When space inthe pump assembly has been filled with product, the dual knife bladepump assembly is said to be primed.

After priming, dispenser 1400 is set to dispense product. Dispenser 1400is shown in a configuration ready to dispense product in FIG. 17, and ina deployed configuration in FIG. 18. Again, rod 1510 is displaced alongaxis 1501 by trigger 1405. Displacement of rod 1510 in direction A movespiston 1540 in direction A after the first knife blade engages, andforces product within cylinder 1550 through holes 1565 and through valve1570, over knife blade receptacle 1590 and through cap 1430. As piston1540 comes in contact with rod 1510, first knife blade receptacle 1520meets first knife blade 1530. Contact between first knife bladereceptacle 1520 and first knife blade 1530 creates a seal, andeffectively or substantially severs or compresses any particulate thatis disposed between the complementary surfaces of first knife bladereceptacle 1520 and first knife blade 1530. Movement of piston 1540 indirection A loads spring 1545. Further, movement of the product overvalve 1570 loads spring 1575.

Having dispensed the product contained within cylinder 1550, trigger1405 returns to its non-deployed position, displacing rod 1510 indirection B. Displacement of rod 1510 effectively breaks the interfacebetween first knife blade receptacle 1520 and first knife blade 1530.The removal of the force applied in direction A removes the forces fromspring 1545 and dispensing the product reduces the forces from spring1575, allowing each spring to unload its loaded force, biasing rod 1510in direction B. Unloading spring 1575 moves valve 1570 in direction Buntil second knife blade 1580 and second knife blade receptacle 1590meet. The contact between second knife blade 1580 and second knife bladereceptacle 1590 creates an effective seal, and effectively orsubstantially compresses or severs any particulate that is disposedbetween the complementary surfaces second knife blade 1580 and valveknife blade receptacle 1590. Product then flows into cylinder 1550, asvalve 1570 has closed, and piston 1540 has separated from cylinder 1550moving through the product, creating a gap between first knife bladereceptacle 1520 and first knife blade 1530.

When dispensing relatively viscous products, suck back created bymovement of the piston 1540 assists in moving the valve and releasingforces from spring 1575. Additionally, suck back will assist in reducingundesired product drip from the removable cap.

During operation as described herein, when the valve is open, the firstknife blade 1530 engages with first knife blade receptacle 1520.Conversely, when the valve is closed, the second knife blade 1580engages with second knife blade receptacle 1590. In one embodiment,engagement between the respective knife blades and knife bladereceptacles creates a seal.

In one embodiment, stop block 1475 and cap 1430 are a matched pair, suchthat stop block 1475 is configured to be removable from grip 1409. Forexample, both stop block 1475 and cap 1430 are colored red for adispenser configuration to dispense ketchup. In another example, bothstop block 1475 and cap 1430 are colored white for a dispenserconfiguration to dispense tartar sauce. In other embodiments, stop block1475 and cap 1430 are inscribed with writing to indicate either aproduct to be dispensed, or an amount of product to be dispensed. Inanother embodiment, the trigger is configured to actuate the pumpassembly. In yet another embodiment, the trigger includes a stop blockconfigured to control the amount of product dispensed with a single pumpactuation.

In another embodiment, stop blocks 1475 are a portion of the trigger,and the triggers are matched to the removable cap.

FIG. 8 illustrates one embodiment of a housing for a system 10 inaccordance with one aspect of the invention. As illustrated in FIG. 8,housing 810 includes a hinged door 820 providing selective access to aninterior portion (not shown) of housing 810. Housing 810 furtherincludes a base portion 830, support portion 840 and product portion850. Product portion 850 includes an interior region configured toentirely enclose system 10 as described in FIGS. 1 and 2 with a bag 90as described in FIGS. 1A and 1B. Housing 810 further includes a gap 860configured to be in sliding engagement with actuator assembly 49 suchthat as product is dispensed from bag 90, actuator 46 descends along gap860. Base portion 830 may include spill portion 831. As betterillustrated in FIG. 5, housing 810 provides access for a spout 505 todispense the product contained within bag 90.

FIG. 9 illustrates one embodiment of a “front-of-store” system inaccordance with one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 9 illustrates ahousing 905 for enclosing system 10 as described above. Housing 905includes hinged doors 920 and 921 rotatable between a closedconfiguration wherein doors 920 and 921 abut each other and an openconfiguration wherein doors 920 and 921 are not abutting. Housing 905further includes a base portion 930 and product portion 950. Doors 920and 921 include a locking device 925 configured to maintain doors 920and 921 in a closed configuration. As depicted in FIG. 9, locking device925 comprises a slotted configuration, although those of ordinary skillin the art will readily recognize a number of other locking devices 925that would be operable to maintain doors 920 and 921 in a closedconfiguration. Such other locking devices may comprise hook and loopfasteners (e.g. Velcro®-brand fasteners), zippers, snaps, screws,rivets, latches or other similar devices. Locking device 925 may alsocomprise means to secure a padlock or similar security device to thelocking device 925 to reduce incidence of unauthorized access to productportion 950. A cup dispenser may be affixed to a side of the housing 905to dispense soufflé cups. The dispenser may dispense paper soufflé cups,as known in the art, or modified cups as described below.

Housing 905 further includes support clip 945. Support clip 945 isconfigured to mate with spout housing 1005 (described below in FIG. 10).Spout housing 1005 slides into locking engagement with support clip 945to position spout 1010 in a predetermined position.

In other embodiments, housing 905 includes a single door configured toenclose the product portion while in a closed configuration and allowaccess to the product portion while in an open configuration. A lockingdevice in such an embodiment would be configured to lock the door to theproduct portion.

FIG. 10 illustrates one embodiment of spout housing 1005 mated withsupport clip 945 of FIG. 9 in accordance with one embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 11 illustrates one embodiment of support clip 945 in accordancewith one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 12 illustrates one embodiment of spout housing 1005 in accordancewith one aspect of the invention. Spout housing 1005 comprises two wings1220 and 1230, hingedly attached at hinge 1250 for rotation between anopen configuration (pictured in FIG. 12) and a closed configuration(pictured in FIG. 10). Spout housing 1005 may further include spoutlocator 1240 configured to accept spout 1010 (FIG. 10) and at least aportion of bag 90 (FIG. 10).

Spout 1010 is configured so that only spout 1010 is in contact with thecontents of bag 90 in one embodiment. Thus, in such embodiments, bag 90and spout 1010 are configured so that the interior of bag 90 is influidic communication with an interior of spout 1010.

FIG. 13 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a valve assembly, inaccordance with another aspect of the invention. Valve assembly 50, asillustrated in, e.g., FIG. 2A, comprises a t-shaped groove to mate witha support rail. FIG. 13 illustrates valve assembly 1349 comprising astraight walled groove 1360, such that valve assembly 1349 is configuredto not move laterally when in position—placing or removing valveassembly 1349 into a supported position along a support rail requiresangling valve assembly (and assembly 10) to allow clearance of thesidewall.

In another embodiment, valve assembly 50 includes a pump to meter theamount of product dispensed from the bag. In one embodiment the pump isa peristaltic pump. In one embodiment, the peristaltic pump meters out 2grams of ketchup. In another embodiment, the peristaltic pump meters outan amount of product calibrated to fill a soufflé cup. The peristalticpump may be powered, or rely on gravitational forces for measurements.In other embodiments, the assembly 10 includes a peristaltic pump thatis not a part of valve assembly 50. In another embodiment, the pump is aperistaltic pump.

A modified soufflé cup receives the output of the bag in one embodiment.Such a soufflé cup comprises a cup that has a substantially circularbowl shape, with its width greater than its height. In one embodiment,the modified cup includes an arced dipping angle created by the base ofthe cup as it flows into the walls of the cup. In one embodiment, themodified cup includes a flanged portion of the wall at its terminus.Such a modified cup may provide a user with the impression of holding agreat deal of product, while holding a smaller amount than prior artpaper soufflé cups known in the art. The cup may comprise polylacticacid, paper, plastics, or any other material known. The cups may bestored in a container affixed to the side of housing 905 as illustratedin, e.g. FIG. 9. The container for the modified cups may include abottom portion to support the cups at their base, rather than at aflanged upper portion of the cup, wherein the bottom portion includes agroove configured to allow a user to remove a single cup at a time byangling the cup for removal. In addition to the substantially circularbowl shape, a number of other shape configurations are possible,including square, diamond, triangular, or other polygonalconfigurations, each of which is encompassed by this disclosure. In oneembodiment, the shape of the soufflé cup is configured to minimizeproduct waste during use.

Hinged attachments described herein may comprise any number of knownhinge assemblies. For example, a hinged attachment includes a pininserted through the hinged parts, and the hinged parts rotate about theaxis of the pin. In another example, the hinge is externally affixed tothe devices, such that the devices rotate about the axis of the externalhinge. External hinges may be affixed to the device using known means,such as adhesives, screws, hook and loop fasteners such as Velcro-brandfasteners, etc. Thus, the components of hinged attachments may beintegral with other structures.

Those of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize that bag 90may contain any number of consumer and commercial products. Bag 90, forexample, may contain food products, such as ketchup, mustard, and othercondiments. In another example, bag 90 may contain sanitizers, soap orother cleaning products. In another example, bag 90 may containhealthcare products. In another example, bag 90 contains salad dressingor pasta sauces. In another example, bag 90 contains glue. In anotherexample, bag 90 contains pancake batter, or an egg batter. In anotherexample, bag 90 contains chemicals or other industrial products.

Those of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize that the partsof system 10 other than bag 90 may comprise any appropriate material ormaterials. Thus, the structural components, such as frame 20, top clip30, roller frame 40, valve assembly 50, housing 5 and dispenser 15 maybe plastic, PVC plastic, metal, steel or any other appropriate materialor combination of materials. In one embodiment, the gripping connectionsbetween the front of an assembly or clip may include steel portionsmating with plastic portions of the back of the assembly or clip. Inanother embodiment, track 26 comprises stainless steel or similarmaterial.

One embodiment of the invention includes the use of more than one system10 in a modular system. Using a plurality of systems 10 in a modularsystem allows the operator to provide a plurality of condiments, forexample, in a single location. Modular systems may provide a smallerfootprint, conserving space utilization.

FIG. 19 illustrates one embodiment of a method 1900 for dispensingproduct in accordance with one aspect of the invention.

Method 1900 begins at step 1910. At step 1920, a flexible product filledbag is secured in a roller assembly. In one embodiment, the flexibleproduct filled bag is implemented as bag 90. In one embodiment, theroller assembly is implemented as described in FIGS. 1, 2A and 4-7.

After securing the bag, method 1900 translates the roller assemblyrelative to the product filled bag at step 1930. Having translated theroller assembly, method 1900 forces product within the bag toward avalve assembly in step 1940. In one embodiment, the valve assembly isimplemented as valve assembly 50 described above. In one embodiment,forcing product within the bag toward a valve assembly includes cuttingany particulates contained within a particulate condiment.

Having forced the product toward the valve assembly, method 1900dispenses the product through the valve assembly in step 1950.

FIG. 20 illustrates one embodiment of a system 2000 for dispensingcondiments. System 2000 includes dispenser 1400 supported in housing 5by wing receptacle 1686, and disposed in a dispensing position adjacentroller assembly 10 supporting bag 90. As shown in FIG. 20, a dispensersystem includes a roller assembly supporting a flexible bag, and adispenser positioned below the flexible bag and positioned to be filledby the flexible bag, the dispenser including a pump assembly havingfirst and second blades to compress particulates within a particulatecondiment.

As used herein, the term “cutting” includes compressing, severing,squeezing or similar actions that may or may not result in division ofan object.

While the embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are presentlyconsidered to be preferred, various changes and modifications can bemade without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Thescope of the invention is indicated in the appended claims, and allchanges that come within the meaning and range of equivalents areintended to be embraced therein.

1. A system for dispensing product, comprising: A track support; Aroller assembly slidably engaged with the track support; A valveassembly attached to a base portion of the track support, wherein aflexible product filled bag is retainable between by the roller assemblyand wherein the roller assembly translates down the track support toforce the product toward the valve assembly.
 2. The system of claim 1wherein the valve assembly includes an actuator to actuate the valve. 3.The system of claim 1 wherein the valve assembly is actuated by a rollerassembly control member.
 4. The system of claim 1 wherein the flexibleproduct filled bag comprises a material selected from the groupconsisting of biaxially oriented nylon material laminated to anethyl-vinyl-alcohol (EVOh) polyethelyne, uni-axially oriented nylon,uni-axially oriented nylon laminated to EVOH, polypropylene,polypropylene laminated to EVOH, uni-axially oriented nylon laminated toEVOH and LLDPE, polypropylene laminated to EVOH laminated to LLDPE, PVC,polystyrene, high impact styrene, a barrier material, low density EVAblends, a material to tear uniformly along a tear strip, and metallocenesealant
 5. The system of claim 1 further comprising a top clip.
 6. Thesystem of claim 1 wherein the roller assembly comprises a plurality ofrollers.
 7. The system of claim 6 wherein at least one roller includes aknurled region.
 8. The system of claim 6 wherein at least one rollerincludes a geared region.
 9. The system of claim 1 wherein the systemdispenses product directly to a dispenser.
 10. The system of claim 1wherein the valve assembly further includes a heating element.
 11. Thesystem of claim 1 wherein the valve assembly comprises a front, a backand a spout receiving portion.
 12. The system of claim 1 furthercomprising a dispensing container.
 13. A method of dispensing product,comprising: Securing a flexible product filled bag in a roller assembly;Translating a roller assembly relative to the product filled bag;Forcing product within the bag toward a valve assembly; Dispensingproduct through the valve assembly.
 14. A roller assembly for dispensingproduct from a bag, comprising: a roller frame; a first knurled rollerrotatably attached to the frame; a second knurled roller attached to theframe, the second knurled roller positioned adjacent the first knurledroller to form a nip; an actuator operably attached to one of the firstand second roller, wherein product from a bag positioned in the nip isdispensed as the first and second rollers rotate responsive to rotationof the actuator.
 15. The assembly of claim 14 wherein at least one ofthe rollers comprises a relief region.
 16. The assembly of claim 14wherein the relief region is formed adjacent an end region of theroller.
 17. The assembly of claim 14 wherein at least one of the rollersis hingedly attached to the frame.
 18. A roller assembly for dispensingproduct from a bag, comprising: a roller frame; a first roller rotatablyattached to the frame; a second roller attached to the frame, the secondroller positioned adjacent the first roller to form a nip, the secondroller comprising a knurled region and at least one relief region; anactuator operably attached to one of the first and second roller,wherein product from a bag positioned in the nip is dispensed as thefirst and second rollers rotate responsive to rotation of the actuator.19. The assembly of claim 18 wherein the first roller includes a knurledregion.
 20. The assembly of claim 19 wherein the second roller isrotatably attached to the frame
 21. A roller assembly for dispensingproduct from a bag, comprising: a roller frame; a first roller rotatablyattached to the frame; a second roller rotatably attached to the frame,the second roller positioned adjacent the first roller to form a nip; anactuator operably attached to one of the first and second roller,wherein rotation of the actuator directly rotates the rollers andsimultaneously translates the rollers relative to a product filled bagpositioned in the nip to dispense food product.
 22. The assembly ofclaim 21 wherein at least one of the first and second rollers comprisesa knurled region.
 23. The assembly of claim 21 wherein at least one ofthe first and second rollers includes a relief region.
 24. The assemblyof claim 23 wherein the relief region comprises a covering.
 25. Theassembly of claim 24 wherein the covering comprises at least onematerial selected from the group consisting of: a soft material, a highfriction material, an elastomer, rubber, and a smooth material.
 26. Theassembly of claim 24 wherein the product filled bag dispenses foodproduct directly into a dispenser.